Tips to Minimize Your D.C. Motorcycle Accident Injuries

If you’re one of the millions of motorcyclists registered in the U.S, you may have experienced some sort of injury along the way. In most cases, these injuries are very minor, and may include scrapes or bruises while you learned to ride a bike, or minor abrasions from flying stones or other debris. No matter whether you choose to ride a motorcycle for leisure, sport, or even just preference, the risks are still the same. Riding on an open vehicle that leaves your body completely exposed to the elements puts you in a vulnerable place if you’re ever involved in a motorcycle accident.

So, for those of you in Maryland who opt for the feel of the open road, here are a few safety tips you may, or may not, know to help reduce your risk of injury due to a motorcycle accident.

Take a motorcycle safety class. Much like drivers’ ed., this prep course can help you understand the basic safety recommendations, motorcycle laws, and maneuverability skills necessary to properly ride a bike.

Don’t drive your bike in hazardous weather. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you may be surprised how often this happens. Keep in mind that if weather limits your visibility of other drivers, than their visibility of you is limited, too!

Be aware of vehicles following you. Did you know that it takes motor vehicles longer to stop than motorcycles? If a car is following you closely, and you have to stop suddenly, the driver behind you may not have enough time to stop without crashing into you.

Wearing protective gear is always a smart plan. A helmet can help protect your head from serious trauma in an accident, but the riders’ jackets, boots, and gloves are not just fashion accessories in the biker community. They protect your arms, hands, legs, and torso from the elements, flying debris, and the pavement.

At Lewis & Tompkins, we’ve seen too many people suffer serious—and senseless—injuries in motorcycle accidents. We hope that you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself every time you jump on your bike for a trip. However, if you are ever injured in a motorcycle accident, we’re here to help. Call Lewis & Tompkins today to speak with one of our skilled attorneys about your case.